Coach: BRANT HAYES

LAST 8 YEARS:

2021 – 10-2

2020 – 9-2

2019 – 4-7

2018 – 5-6

2017 – 6-5

2016 – 0-10

2015 – 1-9

2014 – 2-8

OFFENSE

Big changes are underway for the Empire Bulldogs and head coach Brant Hayes is ready for the challenge. In 2022 three offensive starters return for the Empire Bulldogs who are making the move to Class A this year after previously being in Class B. “Moving to up 11- man is going to be rough at the start,” coach Hayes said. “We’re going to look at slowing down the tempo and controlling the ball.” The Bulldogs also lost some key players to graduation and relocation but are excited for their new opportunity compet- ing in 11-on-11 football. Easton Beck (6-0, 150, So.) will be under center and leading the charge this season. Damion Goldsberry (5-5, 155, Jr.) had 923 yards and 15 touchdowns on only 106 carries in 2021. Look for the Bulldogs to rely on his ability to break into the open field and pick up big chunks of yards. Center Mace Montieth (5-10, 175, Sr.) and wide receiver Nycolas Spigner (6-0, 160, Sr.) will provide veteran leadership for the Bulldogs as they make the transition into a new era.

DEFENSE

Four starters return on defense for Empire as they adapt to a 4-2-5 formation predicated on swarming to the ball. Defensive lineman Brodrick Spigner (6-0, 160, So.) had 23 tackles starting last season as a freshman and drew many double teams which allowed other players to make an impact on the game. Chase Kasperiet (6-2, 180, So.) had 46 tackles as a freshman and looks to have an even more impactful sophomore season off the line. Goldsberry appears on defense in the secondary and makes great use of his hands. He had 26tackles and three interceptions while the senior Spigner had 41 tackles and an interception.

SCHEDULE:

8-26 – at Rush Springs

9-1 – vs. Pauls Valley

9-16 – vs. Healdton

9-23 – at Cordell

9-30 – at Snyder

10-6 – vs. Walters

10-14 – at Mangum

10-20 – at Carnegie

10-28 – vs. Apache

11-4 – at Hobart